As a Sweet Pea plant (Lathyrus odoratus), our relationship with fertilizer is a delicate dance. We crave specific nutrients at precise moments in our life cycle to fuel our rapid growth and produce the intoxicatingly fragrant blossoms we are known for. Providing the wrong type or amount can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of flowers, or worse, damage our delicate roots. Here is our perspective on what we need and when we need it.
From our viewpoint, we are not heavy feeders like tomatoes or roses. We require a balanced diet that supports both our vigorous vine growth and our primary purpose: prolific flowering. The key nutrients we seek are:
• **Phosphorus (P):** This is the most critical element for us. It is the cornerstone for developing strong, extensive root systems and is the primary driver for flower production. A fertilizer with a higher middle number (e.g., 5-10-5) is ideal.
• **Potassium (K):** This nutrient acts as our overall health regulator. It ensures our cellular functions run smoothly, improves our disease resistance, and enhances the quality and color of our flowers.
• **Nitrogen (N):** We need nitrogen in moderation. It is essential for building the lush green foliage that supports our growth. However, an excess will cause us to channel all our energy into producing leaves and tendrils, drastically reducing the number of blooms. A low-first-number fertilizer helps prevent this.
Our journey begins underground with our roots. The single most important act of fertilization happens before we are placed in the soil. We thrive in rich, well-draining soil amended with plenty of organic matter. We deeply appreciate a generous helping of well-rotted compost or manure worked into the bed. This does several things for us: it provides a slow-release source of balanced nutrients, improves soil structure for our roots to explore, and helps retain moisture. We also benefit from a light dusting of a balanced, organic fertilizer or bone meal (which is high in phosphorus) mixed into the planting hole.
Once we are established and begin our rapid vertical climb, our nutrient needs increase. When our vines are about 6 inches tall, a regular feeding schedule can begin. We prefer a liquid fertilizer, as it is immediately available to our roots. A formula like a 5-10-10 diluted to half-strength and applied every 2-3 weeks is perfect. This gives us enough nitrogen to grow but emphasizes the phosphorus and potassium we need to set buds. Please, avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers; they make us lazy bloomers.
As we begin to flower, our energy output is immense. To sustain continuous blooming and prevent our older leaves from yellowing, we require consistent nourishment. Continue with the bi-weekly or monthly feeding schedule using the low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer throughout the blooming season. The constant but gentle supply of nutrients ensures we do not exhaust ourselves and can keep producing waves of fragrant flowers for you to enjoy. Remember, consistent moisture is crucial alongside feeding, as it allows us to uptake these nutrients effectively.
